Commission recommends Board approve planning‑code change to allow certain 120‑sq‑ft accessory structures without permits

The Building Inspection Commission on July 16 voted unanimously to recommend approval of a substituted ordinance (Board of Supervisors File No. 250284‑2) that amends the planning code to provide conditions for repair and relocation of existing nonconforming structures and allows accessory structures up to 10 feet in height and 120 square feet in required yards. The substitution did not change the building code language the commission had reviewed previously.

DBI legislative staff told the commission the substitution consisted primarily of clarifying edits to planning‑code provisions and did not alter the building code portion the commission had already reviewed in May. Staff said accessory structures up to 120 square feet in backyards would be allowed consistent with the California Building Code and that the ordinance was intended to align planning and building rules.

No public speakers commented on the item. After brief questions to clarify why a substitute ordinance was used, the commission voted to recommend the ordinance. The roll call recorded Vice President Ming, Commissioner Calamucci, Commissioner Chavez, Commissioner Newman and Commissioner Williams voting yes. The motion passed unanimously.

Ending: The commission forwarded its recommendation to the Board of Supervisors for further action.